The Kirkus Prize is one of the richest literary awards in the world, with a prize of $50,000 bestowed annually to authors of fiction, nonfiction and young readers’ literature. It was created to celebrate the 81 years of discerning, thoughtful criticism Kirkus Reviews has contributed to both the publishing industry and readers at large. Books that earned the Kirkus Star with publication dates between November 1, 2014, and October 31, 2015 (see FAQ for exceptions), are automatically nominated for the 2015 Kirkus Prize, and the winners will be selected on October 15, 2015, by an esteemed panel composed of nationally respected writers and highly regarded booksellers, librarians and Kirkus critics.

KIRKUS REVIEW

An addition to Yarbro's noteworthy series about the immortal vampire Count Saint-Germain (Better in the Dark, 1993, etc.). Here, in 1640, the Count takes up residence in Cuzco, Peru, in order to learn what he can of Inca civilization before it's totally destroyed by its Spanish conquerors. Acanna Tupac, the middle-aged, last pure-blooded scion of the Inca royal house, soon becomes the object of the Count's attentions. Meantime, the Portuguese nobleman Dom Enrique and his cohorts, with the connivance of the Spanish- -intending to despoil the Incas of the last of their hidden treasure, despite Acanna Tupac's denial that any such thing exists- -invade Acanna Tupac's house and molest her. The Count comes to her rescue, thereby earning the enmity of Dom Enrique and the Spanish. And soon, the saintly Saint-Germain, with his herbs and anatomical knowledge, heals the sick and injured, even the natives--thus condemning himself as a heretic and sorcerer. Fatefully, the last Inca High Priest dies; Acanna Tupac, seeing no hope for her people despite her love for Saint-Germain and his offer of vampirical immortality, dons ritual dress and commits suicide. The Spanish quickly attempt to arrest the Count, who flees with his faithful servant, Rogerio, his dwindling supplies of native earth, and a map supplied by Acanna Tupac. In the high mountains, he hopes to find temporary refuge in a monastery. Another illuminating and satisfying episode in the life of Saint-Germain. His historical range is much wider than Lestat's- -although, perhaps because of this particular cultural milieu and its inescapable implications, somewhat predictable.

Be the first to discover new talent!
Each week, our editors select the one author and one book they believe to be most worthy of your attention and highlight them in our Pro Connect email alert.
Sign up here to receive your FREE alerts.